Heathrow’s Vader Deicing Facility Forges Ahead

Work at the new Vader North remote deicing pad to the east of Terminal 2 at London Heathrow Airport is well underway. The pad is slated for completion later this fall.

The eventual deicing facility, which will consist of two pads (designated Vader North and Vader South), will allow for simultaneous engines-on deicing activities to be carried out on one Code E-compliant pad and one Code F-compliant pad. All deicing operations at the facility will be performed by a single provider, and a decision on the selected provider is imminent.

Heathrow has been heavily involved in the development of its overall aircraft deicing system for several years now for the benefit of airport stakeholders, and the Vader facility is a testament to this commitment and vision. The Vader facility is designed to improve operational efficiency and reduce stand congestion at the airport, as well as improve environmental performance. The facility will employ the latest technology, including electronic message boards, in-ground light control, bay management systems and an automated guidance system to direct aircraft traffic.

Vader will become operational during the course of winter 2015-16.

Proud parent Neil Pritchard from Heathrow in front of Vader construction site